The About Face Collective was formed in 2009 when Natalie Boustead and Lauren Pirie came together to combine their various skills and networks toward a common goal. The two connected a group of artists, environmentalists and entrepreneurs seeking to work collectively and integrate approaches to urban sustainability. We envisioned the development of creative community spaces that would promote green lifestyles to Torontonians with weight placed on making these lifestyles accessible and attractive to young people and lower income families and individuals.

Lauren and Natalie represented the collective when selected as recipients of the David Suzuki Fund Scholarship to attend the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association Community Power Launch. They coordinated, curated and directed the tremendously successful Art & Eco Fashion Show fundraising event at Arta Gallery in partnership with Regenesis. Throughout this time they have continued to hold events and support and promote local artists and sustainable city life while developing their vision.

Lauren Pirie: Project Manager, Artistic Director and Marketing Manager Lauren will work collaboratively with Natalie to manage overall project coordination and progress, source and coordinate contractors, consultants and volunteers. Lauren will focus on the creative design and artistic direction of the garden space and any artist created elements. She will coordinate and manage the artist team and work closely with the Sketch coordinator and Sketch artists. Lauren will be assisted by creative spatial design consultant and local reclaimed materials expert, Mahmood Popal to direct the creative design of the physical space and coordinate between artists, architects and contractors. Lauren will also oversee all communications, public relations and marketing of the project and subsequent programming. This will include press releases, written materials, website and social media upkeep, branding and graphic design.

Natalie Boustead: Project Manager, Education Coordinator and Garden Manager Natalie will be responsible for the general oversight of project implementation in collaboration with Lauren Pirie. This will include coordination of contractors, architects, builders, artists and volunteers. She will oversee the creation and implementation of educational programming in the space, as well as organizing and coordinating the use of garden space. This would include gardening volunteer coordination, crop planning, gathering and organizing educational resources, and leading and coordinating volunteers or interns to lead workshops and school tours.